Dean Huijsen is now officially a Real Madrid player. The Spanish giants triggered his release clause from AFC Bournemouth, paying £50 million (approximately €59.3 million) and securing him on a deal until 2030. However, before Los Blancos stepped in decisively, FC Barcelona had also considered bringing in the promising defender.

Barça Had Him in Their Sights

Back when Huijsen was part of the Málaga CF youth setup, he had already caught the attention of top European clubs, including Barcelona. Despite this early interest, it was Juventus who signed him in 2021. Later, after proving himself in the Premier League with Bournemouth, his name reemerged among the most coveted young defenders.

Barcelona, amid its ongoing rebuild and search for young defensive talent, evaluated Huijsen as a solid reinforcement. Still, due to financial limitations and strategic priorities, the deal never advanced beyond the initial stages.

A Strategic Addition for Real Madrid

With this acquisition, Real Madrid continues its generational renewal in defense. Given recent departures and injuries affecting their backline, signing Huijsen, just 20 years old, fits perfectly into the club’s long-term vision.

Having already debuted for the Spanish national team, the young center-back could make his Real Madrid debut soon, potentially at the upcoming Club World Cup, where the team aims to add another trophy to its historic cabinet.

While Barcelona missed out on signing him, Dean Huijsen’s case highlights the fierce competition between Spain’s two footballing giants for the next generation of global talent. This time, the advantage went to the team from Chamartín.